Welcoming a newborn babe is a joyous occasion, full of excitement and anticipation. You're gearing up for a new family member, creating a to-do list of everything that needs to be done. As you paint the nursery and stock up on diapers, you want to think about the delivery day, ensuring that you pack for yourself and your little arrival. Here are four things that might make this time a bit more comfortable.
Have a Birth Plan
When contractions start, you may not feel comfortable making any major decisions; therefore, months before the big day take time to research birthing plans, deciding on where and how you want the big day to occur. You'll want to consider location, expertise and atmosphere. Do you want a relaxed setting? Are you interested in a water birth? Visit local medical facilities such as tampa bay birth center to learn about alternatives to the traditional hospital route. After picking the appropriate place, decide on how you want care provided. Do you want an epidural? Do you prefer a natural approach? At what point would you consider a C-section. Write it out, and keep others aware of your choices.
Have Nursing Clothes
If you've never nursed before, you may not realize that it's helpful to have different attire. After all, the little one may be hungry all night, and you don't want to pull tops and bras up and down. You'll already be tired enough. Have outfits that quickly fold from the front or unbutton, hopefully saving you time and headache.
Have Baby Clothes
You may want to dress up the baby for pictures or simply to show him or her off, so pack numerous outfits, including clothes in multiple sizes and different styles. Hats, gloves and socks may seem silly, but newborns quickly become cold. Keep several handy.
Spend some time thinking about the big day ahead of time. Create your plan, and pack your bags. Then, enjoy some snuggle time. 
 
 
 
 

Many middle-aged Americans find themselves caring for an elderly adult, usually a parent. It is a labor of love, but it is work. So much effort goes into caring for an elderly parent most people find they need help at some point.

Specialized Care for Them

Sometimes injuries dictate when it is time for a specialized facility. Chronic medical conditions may prevent the elderly from taking care of their own medical and hygiene needs; such cases are usually obvious. However, sometimes the change is less abrupt and the line is blurred such as with many dementia cases. If your aging parent lives with you changes may be so gradual you barely notice them, so keep a written record that can serve as an objective measure. If your parent has trouble recognizing you, remember where he or she is, or finding the words to communicate basic ideas, it may be time for memory care denver. Recurring falls, decreasing mobility or increasing isolation may indicate a need for assisted living.

General Care for You

You may spend so much time and energy meeting the needs of an elder adult that you neglect your own needs. You cannot give what you don’t have, so be sure you care for yourself as well as you care for others. Keep yourself physically healthy with good nutrition, quality sleep and regular exercise. Keep yourself mentally healthy by nurturing social connections, sustaining a positive attitude and maintaining your sense of humor. Remember that you need breaks from the daily care activities you perform for your parent, so reach out to family members and friends to see if they can spell you for a bit. A short vacation can recharge your batteries and allow you to return home refreshed and re-energized. If no one is available to help, reach out to community services and support organizations. Programs like adult day care can afford you a few hours of respite each week and give your parent mental stimulation at the same time.

That moment when your child makes his or her debut into the world can be the most amazing feeling. Getting to that moment, however, can often be a worrisome time. Understanding what will happen and preparing for it can be one way to ease the anxiety.

Choose the Right Place

While most childbirths take place at a hospital, some may feel more comfortable at home or at a birthing center San Antonio. Take a tour of the facility and ask lots of questions. No matter where you choose, make sure to maintain open communication with your doctor or midwife. Let them know what your expectations are and allow them to share theirs. 

Be Physically Active During Your Pregnancy

In most healthy pregnancies, getting some exercise is encouraged. Labor and delivery can be very physically taxing, so helping your body build endurance and strength can help you be more prepared. Be sure to check with your doctor first to make sure it’s safe for you to exercise while pregnant.

Have the Essentials Ready

If you suddenly go into labor, it’s likely the last thing you’ll be thinking about is stopping at the store to buy diapers and wipes. Before you reach the end of your pregnancy, it can help to have the basics on hand for when you get home with your baby. That doesn’t mean you have to have a fully stocked and decorated nursery; the baby will probably be fine with a few outfits and blankets, diapers and wipes, plenty to eat and a safe place to sleep.

Welcoming a new baby into your life is a beautiful moment, but it isn’t always a stress-free experience. You can head into it more prepared by choosing the right hospital or birthing center, getting your body ready for labor and having a few essential items ready when the time comes.

A photo of me when I was younger and a photo of my daughter now.